Mathematically they are still alive. Realistically they're done, chasing two teams that many believe will make the playoffs. But however you look at it, the NY Mets need a spark on offense. No one can deny that they're pitching has been lights out lately, but somehow the offense which led them to be 10 games over .500 before the All Star break, has done a 180 and cost Met pitchers some games. When you are relying on your starters to continually pitch one-hitters and shut outs night in and night out, you're going nowhere.In the words of Jerry Manuel, the offense has been "pathetic." The usually calm and patient Manuel called out his players in the post game interviews after the Mets' 3-2 loss to Houston Thursday night. Hopefully the players will respond.This is a perfect time for the Mets to be rolling into Pittsburgh, to beat up on a hapless Pirate team, well on their way to their 18th straight losing season. As I write this, the Mets are winning 7-2 in the bottom of the 5th. The 7 runs scored by the Mets are the most scored this month, where they have not scored more than 5 runs in 18 games.Did Jerry Manuel's words spark some intensity into the offense? That's to be seen. But if this is to be the tipping point of the Mets' season, they are going to need to score runs, and take some pressure of of Santana, Dickey and the rest of the starters. Maybe Pat Misch can finally get some run support, and thus his first win this season.Note: It was reported today that outfielder Jason Bay may not return this season after the progression of an injury to his head almost a month ago has resulted in more complications. I'd like to extend my wishes for a full recovery, and I can't wait to see him back on the field soon.

So at the mid way point of week two, I am renewing my hope for a season following blog. Preview aside, come on Mets, cut the errors!

The sporatic start is put on the defense as of late as the team committed 7 errors in the first 7 games, not a good start. Tonight, they rely on Oliver Perez to right the ship and put them in the winners' column again.

This team has potential, we all know it, let's see whos better in the big Citi!

The Amazins' are 3-3 and in some rough shape early here vs the Padres (as of now down 4-1).

But we rejoice, its another week passed and its baseball season! Now all the hubbub about Hansboro and UNC is over, basketball (the important league anyway) is over and its all eyes on New York where the two biggest acts in town are geared for another summer of hot dogs and cracker jacks!

And the Mets are down tonight and off to a questionable start, but its game 7, and 150 summodd left to go.

Here's a few thoughts for my first piece ... You see my favorite teams, theres a trend here folks - ORANGE AND BLU. Honestly, I used to be a Knicks fan, but that's just frustrating!

I'm looking for the CUSE to get back to their winning ways tonight against WV ... and they'll make the push they need to get a prime seed in The Madness ... Johnny Flynn and Paul Harris and the 00ne Rick Jackson will be in full force tonight ... MORE AFTER THE GAME ... GO CUSE!

Opening day is only a couple months away and I may start to do a season long Mets blog, keep up with me here!

Football season is done, and Hockey is only good in my hometown, so those will have to wait till next year.